Outdoors

Captain's Corner

What's hot: Flounder are gathering in sandy areas around offshore wrecks. These flat fish are showing up with good size and frequency. And grouper are moving into areas of big structure.

By BILL HARDMAN
Published February 24, 2007

What's hot: Flounder are gathering in sandy areas around offshore wrecks. These flat fish are showing up with good size and frequency. And grouper are moving into areas of big structure.

Tips from pros: Many divers tend to ignore the sand and focus on fish in and around the structure, but the sand has many surprises. Grouper spooked off the wreck will venture into the sand, then change color from chocolate to cream. A keen eye and a little stealth will help a spearfisherman get close enough for an ethical shot. And flounder are hiding under a thin layer of sand. Many spearfishermen don't use their spearguns on these flounder. They glide up and pin the fish to the sand with a swift downward knife thrust. The trick is to turn your knife perpendicular to the fish. A knife that has the sharp edge facing the tail will allow the fish to escape.

Tournament news: The TBSC Winter Invitational spearfishing tournament is near. Deadline for early registration discounts is Friday. For information, go to www.tampabayspearfishing club.org or call Isaac Lathrop at 727 460-0205.

[Last modified February 23, 2007, 23:08:45]